Overview
- Kennedy posted a video Tuesday showing him take two snakes by hand from the patio of CMS administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz in Florida, and the clip quickly went viral.
- The National Park Service identified the reptiles as non-venomous black racers and noted that, while not poisonous, they can bite if they feel trapped.
- The CDC, NPS and Florida wildlife officials reiterated standard safety guidance to leave wild animals alone, keep children and pets away, and contact animal control or trained specialists for removal.
- Reporters highlighted the optics of two senior federal health officials in the footage and noted the video revived media recall of Kennedy’s past animal-related viral episodes, though no injuries or official sanctions have been reported.
- With spring bringing more human–snake encounters in Florida, the episode could prompt clearer public messaging on safe response to wildlife sightings and scrutiny of officials’ social-media conduct.